Introduction: Pre-Flight Food Choices Matter

Long flights can be both exciting and exhausting for Nigerian travelers, especially when heading on international trips or business ventures. Whether you’re flying to a nearby African destination or traveling across continents, what you eat before a long flight plays a crucial role in your comfort during the journey.

Certain foods can lead to bloating, discomfort, dehydration, or fatigue, making your flying experience less than ideal. In this blog post, we will guide you on the foods to avoid before long flights, ensuring you arrive at your destination feeling refreshed and ready to take on your travels.

1. Avoid Fatty and Greasy Foods

Before embarking on a long flight, you may be tempted to indulge in rich, greasy foods like fried chicken, burgers, or pizza. While these comfort foods are tasty, they can disrupt your digestion and leave you feeling sluggish during the flight.

Why avoid greasy foods before flying?

  • They take longer to digest, which can lead to bloating and discomfort.
  • High-fat foods may increase your chances of acid reflux or heartburn, especially in the confined space of an airplane cabin.
  • The combination of a high-fat meal and low cabin pressure can make you feel lethargic.

Alternatives:

  • Opt for lean proteins like chicken or fish paired with vegetables or whole grains for a lighter, digestion-friendly meal before your flight.
  • Choose grilled or steamed dishes instead of fried options.

2. Steer Clear of Heavy Carbs and Refined Sugars

It’s tempting to enjoy a hearty plate of pasta or pastries before your flight, but consuming heavy carbs and refined sugars can result in a blood sugar spike followed by a rapid crash. This can lead to fatigue, irritability, and sluggishness definitely not ideal when you’re about to embark on a long journey.

Why avoid heavy carbs and refined sugars?

  • They can cause bloating and indigestion, making you uncomfortable during the flight.
  • They lead to a sudden sugar crash, which can leave you feeling tired and groggy.

Alternatives:

  • Choose whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, or oats that provide steady energy without causing spikes in blood sugar.
  • Snack on fruits like apples or bananas for natural sweetness and energy.

3. Avoid High-Salt Foods and Processed Snacks

Airplane cabins are notoriously dehydrating, and consuming foods high in salt (such as processed snacks, salty chips, and canned meats) can exacerbate dehydration. Staying hydrated during your flight is essential, so it’s best to avoid high-salt foods that increase thirst and cause bloating.

Why avoid high-salt foods before flying?

  • They increase water retention and make you feel puffy and uncomfortable.
  • Salt can lead to dehydration, which is especially problematic in dry, pressurized airplane cabins.

Alternatives:

  • Opt for lightly salted or unsalted snacks like fresh fruit, vegetables, or nuts.
  • Choose whole foods like roasted sweet potatoes or hummus with carrots as a healthy snack option.

4. Skip Spicy Foods

While spicy foods are often a favorite in Nigerian cuisine, they may not be the best choice before a long flight. Spicy dishes can cause stomach discomfort, heartburn, and digestive issues, which can worsen due to the limited space and air pressure inside the plane.

Why avoid spicy foods before flying?

  • Spices can irritate the stomach lining, leading to heartburn or acid reflux during the flight.
  • They can cause discomfort and excessive gas, which is uncomfortable in the confined space of an airplane.

Alternatives:

  • Stick to mild and easily digestible foods like grilled vegetables, lean meats, or soups.
  • If you love spice, choose options that are lighter on the heat, such as adding a touch of chili powder to a vegetable stir-fry instead of spicy curries.

5. Stay Away from Carbonated Drinks

While fizzy drinks like sodas, sparkling water, and beer may be refreshing, they can cause bloating and discomfort during long flights. The carbonation can lead to gas build-up in your stomach, which can become more uncomfortable in the pressurized cabin environment.

Why avoid carbonated drinks before flying?

  • They can cause bloating, making your stomach feel distended or uncomfortable during your flight.
  • Excessive gas buildup can lead to discomfort, especially during takeoff and landing.

Alternatives:

  • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
  • Choose herbal teas like peppermint or chamomile for their soothing properties.

6. Limit Dairy Products

If you are lactose intolerant or sensitive to dairy, it’s a good idea to avoid consuming milk, cheese, and cream-based products before your flight. Dairy can lead to bloating, gas, or even diarrhea, especially when consumed in large amounts.

Why avoid dairy products before flying?

  • Dairy can cause digestive discomfort and exacerbate feelings of bloating and heaviness.
  • For lactose-sensitive individuals, dairy can trigger stomach cramps and diarrhea.

Alternatives:

  • Opt for dairy-free alternatives like almond milk, soy yogurt, or plant-based cheese.
  • Try fruits like berries or apples with a handful of nuts for a light, satisfying snack.

7. Avoid Alcoholic Beverages

While it’s tempting to enjoy a pre-flight cocktail or a glass of wine, alcohol can dehydrate you and disrupt your sleep patterns. It also intensifies the effects of jet lag, making it harder to recover from long-haul flights.

Why avoid alcohol before flying?

  • Alcohol can dehydrate you, leaving you feeling tired and sluggish.
  • It can disrupt your sleep during the flight, making it harder to rest and recover.

Alternatives:

  • Drink plenty of water or herbal tea before and during your flight.
  • If you’re looking for something refreshing, consider flavored water or a natural juice.

SNS Thoughts: Smart Travel Starts with Healthy Choices

At Sand & Sneakers, we understand the importance of staying comfortable during your travels. By making mindful food choices before your flight, Nigerian travelers can avoid discomfort, dehydration, and sluggishness, ensuring they arrive at their destination feeling refreshed and energized.

Don’t let your pre-flight meals be a source of stress. Instead, plan ahead and opt for foods that are light, digestion-friendly, and hydrating. This way, you’ll be able to make the most of your trip and focus on the excitement ahead.

SNS Hotline: +2349070765288
Website: sandnsnkrs.com
Email: help@sandnsnkrs.com

SNS Conclusion: Travel Smart with the Right Food Choices

What you eat before your flight can significantly impact your comfort, energy levels, and overall travel experience. By avoiding greasy, salty, spicy, and carbonated foods, Nigerian travelers can ensure a smoother journey. Prioritize hydration, balanced meals, and snacks that are light on the stomach, and you’ll be well on your way to a more enjoyable flight.

With these simple pre-flight food tips, you’ll be able to travel smart and arrive at your destination ready to take on new adventures. Safe travels!